2015 Farmers Market Promotion Program Grants

Approximately $13 million in competitive grant funds in fiscal year (FY) 2015 is available to be awarded through the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP). The Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) is a component of the Farmers Marketing and Local Food Promotion Program, which is authorized by the Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Marketing Act of 1946, as amended (7 U.S.C. 3005). The goals of FMPP grants are to increase domestic consumption of and access to locally and regionally produced agricultural products, and to develop new market opportunities for farm and ranch operations serving local markets by developing, improving, expanding, and providing outreach, training, and technical assistance to, or assisting in the development, improvement, and expansion of domestic farmers’ markets, roadside stands, community-supported agriculture programs, agritourism activities, and other direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. All projects must benefit two or more farmers, producers, or farm vendors who produce and sell directly to consumers.The minimum FY2015 FMPP award per grant is $15,000 and the maximum is $100,000. An applicant is limited to no more than one grant in a grant-funding year. FMPP funding will be available for use beginning on October 1, 2015. Project work should begin in September 30, 2015 and end not later than September 29, 2017. Matching funds are not required. FMPP will host a webinar to introduce FMPP on March 25. For more information about FMPP including program background and webinar information, visit the AMS grants website: http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSgrants.